I sit relatively close to HR so I've had a chance to build relationships with these folks over the last 6 years. And, if you know me - you know I absolutely hate paperwork - so I find these people invaluable. A joke I have going is that whoever helps me the most (meaning gets me out of doing the most paperwork) I designate #1. So, I walk around talking to them kind of like when House (the TV show character) numbered a bunch of job candidates and still refers to one of his colleagues as '13'.
The current #1 is being escorted to the doors at the end of the day. Sad. I have been asking God to allow me to be an encouragement to my colleagues as we go through this transition (which will be ongoing for months). Yesterday and this morning He put on my heart to encourage #1 in writing (as well as verbally) as He moves her down the path. Here's what I came up with. Is there someone you work with that could use a kind word today?
An Ode to Number One
Hear ye, hear ye, all who have ears
I’ve recently heard news that leads me to tears
For one who brings joy and smiles and delight
will be banished from our lives and whisked from our sight
It’s criminal at times the folks they let lead
who choose against people and focus on greed
Their minds may be nimble at profit and loss
Frankly, I prefer more compassion in a boss
But, alas, their decision is made, sealed and signed
and so it’s your farewell to which I’m resigned
With hollow words of hope to the door you’ll be led
and then to a sound sleep they’ll repose in their bed
A pox on the decision makers who brought us this blight!
A quiet pox, however, as we cower in fright
But let us be fearless and boisterous in praise
as we lay down our tribute in this simplest of ways
A smile in the workplace does wonders indeed
for joy is the harvest that comes from that seed
Now you, more than others, have offered this gift
with laughter and kindness our spirits you lift
Our days have been brighter because you are here
Your quiet, unsung value to some is quite clear
It speaks to your character that you will be missed
You're more than a name that populates a list
A path is a journey that’s not always straight
it carries us to people with a vicariousness of fate
Yet as we look backwards and see all the signs
it sometimes is possible to see a design
The pattern we see as we reflect on you here
is of beauty, warm-heartedness and uncommon good cheer
So for all your great work and laughter and fun
I officially designate you: Permanent Number One!
5 comments:
btw.. .folks.. 1) it's been awhile since i've written a poem... and 2) i am under some time pressure here :)
so.. please be kind in your reviews!!!
Awesome.
I wish that about a year ago when I was being the one escorted out, one of my coworkers would have done that for the others leaving. It is great! You are truly blessed. And remember....God has a plan....it may not be real clear but it is there!
Hopefully the economy will turn around and those #1's will be welcomed back in the door...at which time their value will be respected even more.
Keep your chin up. If you need anything...remember I am here.
aww..so sweet
Again you allow your light to shine! Good for you Tod and glad to hear that you were not only vocal to her but to others with her praise. Too many times we let the little good things in life just slip by and focus on the bad. So well done and thank you for sharing with us. You made that long difficult road easier I am sure for your co worker. ~vick
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